27: Jonathan Simon

When we last put the spotlight on 100 creative forces in Phoenix, it was no secret there were more than 100 individuals who were making waves in the local arts community. So as we count down to our annual Best of Phoenix issue, we're profiling 100 more. Welcome (back) to 100 Creatives.

Jonathan Simon says he hails from the frozen tundras of the north and wandered into Phoenix 11 years ago. He's a self-described local explorer and huge nerd -- both traits that led him to launch Lightning Octopus, a Phoenix-based blog dedicated to all things nerd in the Valley.

Jonathan Simon at the defunct Cade Gallery

I came to Phoenix with ... a lot of misconceptions about it. I'm glad I took the time to get to know this place.

lightningoctopus.com

I share local awesomeness because ... the geek culture in this city is unbelievable. Sometimes I am overwhelmed by it. We have a wealth of creators, world builders, writers, hackers, developers, problem solvers. All nerds, all awesome.

I'm most productive when ... the sun is about to come up, and my headphones are on. (I'm one of those strange morning people you've heard of.)

My inspiration wall is full of ... photos from my local adventures. Getting out, connecting with the community, and getting great stories motivates me to keep discovering and keep writing.

Dream Photography Studio

I've learned the most from ... starting. My personality can spend eternity planning, but actually starting something has pushed me to have something to show, learn from, and make adjustments.

Good work should always ... give you a crazy story.

The Phoenix creative scene could use ... more turnout. Find something nearby going on. Show up and support it. It goes a long way to the people who put their hearts into it, and bigger turnouts lead to more things going on.